Anyone who wears braces is enthusiastic to get them off as soon as possible. While there’s no magical way to fix your teeth, there are ways to speed up your orthodontic treatment. The following tips will help you get the most from your orthodontic treatment in as little time as possible.

Watch What You EatIt’s hard to follow the strict food rules that come with orthodontic appliances. At the same time, it is entirely worth the trouble. There isn’t a hard, crunchy, or sticky food that is worth the setback it can cause in your treatment. Not only can a loose bracket or wire really hurt your mouth, but it also means your braces will take longer to do their job. For this reason, try very hard to stay away from those tempting treats (yes, even on holidays!) so that your orthodontic treatment can do its work.

Protect Your Teeth (and Braces)Protecting your teeth and orthodontic appliances includes a couple of steps. First, proper hygiene is essential. Be sure to brush regularly and not too harshly. Also, clean any brackets and wires carefully and well. Secondly, if you or your child play any sports, be sure to use a mouthguard. This is absolutely necessary to protect your teeth and mouth from damage. Additionally, this protects your orthodontic appliances from being bent or damaged.

Follow Doctor’s OrdersIt may sound obvious, but whatever treatment your orthodontist prescribes, follow through with it. It’s easy to make excuses at home and not wear your rubber bands all the time or forget your retainer. This is a big component to shortening orthodontic treatment. By following your orthodontist's guidelines, you get a cohesive and effective course of treatment. If you choose to be inconsistent or incomplete, then your treatment will take much longer.

Visit Your Orthodontist RegularlyRegular visits with your orthodontist are important to ensure that your teeth are responding well to treatment. These appointments are also where we make adjustments to your appliances and the overall treatment plan. By checking your progress and replacing your wires, we keep you on track for getting your braces off ASAP. However, if you don’t schedule appointments or don’t keep them, your treatment will be drawn out and take far longer.

No one gets braces and hopes to keep them for a long time. Orthodontic appliances are a means to an end, putting you on the fast track to the straight and beautiful smile of your dreams. By following the tips above, you can streamline your orthodontic experience and get your braces off before you know it, saving yourself time and money. Looking for an excellent orthodontist in the greater Columbus, Ohio area? Be sure to check out James Karpac, who specializes in orthodontics for adults and children.

Few people disagree about the importance of healthy teeth. However, do you know that the benefits of a straight and healthy smile extend far beyond just conventional wisdom? Here are six significant positive results of investing in your orthodontic well-being.

Increased ConfidenceWhile cosmetic concerns may or may not be on your list of reasons to see an orthodontist, a straight smile is a great boost for your self-esteem. Straight, healthy teeth give you the confidence to share your smile all day long. There are many physical benefits of a healthy smile, but don’t underestimate the psychological perks as well.

Easier Oral HygieneThe spaces between overlapping or misaligned teeth are difficult to reach for cleaning. For this reason, a straight smile is important for oral hygiene. Straight teeth make both brushing and flossing easier and more effective.

Reduced Jaw Pain and HeadachesCrooked teeth wear down unevenly over time. This leads to tension in your jaw and head, contributing to jaw pain, tooth pain, and headaches. Additionally, misaligned teeth are often a cause for other jaw issues such as TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders).

Lower Risk of Gum DiseaseThere are many causes of gum disease, but chief among them is poor dental hygiene. When the misalignment of teeth obstructs adequate cleaning, teeth are more likely to hold onto food particles and attract bacteria. This bacteria builds up over time and leads to gum disease. Orthodontic care not only straightens your bite for healthy teeth. It protects the health of your gums, as well.

Less Risk of Dental InjuryTeeth that are crooked, misaligned, or protruding are more at risk for injury. Straight teeth protect one another by preventing impact or snags on foreign objects. A straight, healthy smile is a good defense against accidental dental injury or damage.

Better Overall HealthHigh-quality dental health has been linked to many other indicators of overall health. Straighter teeth lead to less tooth decay and gum disease. Studies link gum disease with other diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. A straight, healthy smile is a good indication that the rest of your body is in good shape as well.

You may visit an orthodontist for any number of reasons. However, it is good to know that healthy teeth will not only fulfill your desired goals but many more. Research shows that a straight, healthy smile is good for every part of you. Interested in improving your smile? Call James Karpac Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation.

Congratulations! Your braces are coming off! While this is the end of something big, it’s also a new beginning. You may be wondering how this changes your routine. Here are some of the things you need to know as you head into life after braces.

When the Braces Come Off

At your final adjustment, your orthodontist will let you know it is time for your braces to come off. Your next appointment will take about an hour. Your orthodontist will remove your braces, carefully taking each bracket off with pliers and then cleaning off any remaining glue. Don’t worry! This won’t hurt. Once your brackets are all off, the orthodontist will carefully check your teeth for any cavities, decay, or other concerns. Finally, he or she will take an impression of your teeth to serve as the form for your retainer.

Time to Celebrate

While taking care of your teeth is extremely important, so is celebrating milestones. With this in mind, make sure you indulge in some of the special treats you’ve been missing while you’ve had braces. Apples, corn on the cob, bubble gum, and hard candy are all on the menu. Of course, be sure to brush and floss very well afterward! Also, be sure to take some photos of your beautiful new smile.

What to Expect

After braces, remember that you need time to adjust to using your mouth without them. All of the ways you normally move your mouth, like chewing and talking, will feel different and even odd. Don’t worry, this feeling won’t last for long. Also, your teeth will look different. You haven’t seen them much in a while! There may be some discoloration, but it will be minor and go away quickly as well.

How to Keep Great Teeth

You’ve worked hard for your straight teeth, so be sure to maintain them. Follow up as soon as you can with your orthodontist to get your retainer, and listen closely to your instructions on when and how long to wear them. Retainers help your teeth hold their new positions. Before long, you’ll be able to switch to only nighttime wear. Additionally, keep up with your dental cleanings and daily maintenance. If you notice any problems with your teeth, such as decay or shifting, be sure to contact your orthodontist right away.

There really isn’t a feeling like the joy of getting braces removed. You’ve invested a lot in your amazing smile, and now it’s yours to enjoy. With these simple tips, you’ll be ready to jump right into your life after braces. If you have any questions about braces for yourself or someone else, or need help managing other orthodontic issues, contact Dr. James Karpac today.

Most people think of their oral health as separate from the health of the rest of their body. In reality, healthy teeth and a healthy body are inextricably linked. Preventative dental care could protect you from many serious health conditions. By regularly caring for your teeth and gums, both at home and at the dentist’s office, you gain insight into the rest of your health.

The Links Between Disease and Poor Dental HygieneMany major diseases show themselves first in your teeth and gums. Sensitive, bleeding gums and loose feeling teeth are symptoms of diabetes. If you present these concerns, your dentist may refer you to your doctor. If you are already diagnosed, these are signs of poorly managed blood sugar. Receding gums and loose teeth can be signs of bone density loss, indicating osteoporosis. Erosion of enamel on the back molars can be a sign of nighttime acid reflux, which is otherwise often difficult to diagnose. Overall, a dentist gets a good sense of a patient’s overall health by looking into his or her mouth. Ultimately, healthy teeth and a healthy body go hand in hand.

Particularly Vulnerable PatientsSome patients are particularly vulnerable to diseases that either show themselves in oral health or begin there. The elderly often struggle to maintain healthy teeth, and neglected oral care is an early sign of dementia. The link to osteoporosis also makes dental care especially important in later years. Another at-risk group may be less expected: patients who wear braces. Because the brackets and wires collect plaque, it is vital that patients with braces brush and floss twice a day. Otherwise, gum disease and other corrosive conditions are likely. Additionally, poor dental hygiene combined with braces can mask the symptoms of other conditions.

What You Can Do To Maintain Healthy TeethHealthy teeth are partially genetic, but there is quite a bit you can do to increase your oral health. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly go a long way toward a healthy mouth. Limiting your sugar intake, especially in drinks, and chewy foods can also boost your oral health. Finally, remember to regularly schedule dental exams with your dentist and orthodontist. Consistent dental care makes a huge difference in your health and wellness.

It’s easy to think of your oral health in isolation, especially since the upkeep of your teeth and gums is so different than that of the rest of your body. However, it is vital to remember that healthy teeth are a good indication of a healthy body and vice versa. If you need an orthodontist in the Dublin or Gahanna area, be sure to give us a call at James Karpac Orthodontics. We look forward to the opportunity to help you increase your overall health.

While it is wise for everyone to see an orthodontist in childhood, in reality not everyone gets that opportunity. It isn’t unusual to wonder if the challenges you are facing warrant a trip to the orthodontist. Our first recommendation will always be to err on the side of caution and schedule a consultation. However, here are some key instances when your orthodontic needs definitely call for a visit.

Jaw PainJaw pain affects a much larger percentage of the population than many people realize. According to research, somewhere between 5-12% of men and women experience jaw pain, with symptoms twice as likely for women. Whether caused by TMJ or other issues, jaw pain has a major effect on quality of life. Don’t suffer through it! There are many long-term solutions to jaw pain, and frequently an orthodontist can help.

Difficulty ChewingWhatever the cause, difficulty chewing is another oral symptom that greatly affects your quality of life. If you are experiencing pain while eating, it could be related to crowded or crooked teeth. An orthodontist can free you from that pain by straightening your smile and making room for all of your teeth. If you suffer from difficulty or pain while chewing your food, it’s time to make an appointment with the best orthodontist in Gahanna.

Poor Tooth AlignmentIf your teeth (or your child’s teeth) have come in crooked or crowded, you are a prime candidate for orthodontic care. Crooked teeth can cause many other health concerns, including pain, gum disease, and tooth decay. Malocclusion, or imperfect tooth alignment, is the main concern of orthodontics. There are a variety of ways an orthodontist can assist you in straightening your teeth and preventing future problems.

Smile ShameOne very common reason that people visit the orthodontist is shame about their smile. A study of 2000 people showed that 81% of participants believe their smile looks unattractive in photographs. Even if your teeth are not causing physical discomfort, orthodontists are glad to assist you in regaining your confidence by correcting your smile.

If you are unsure about seeing an orthodontist, you are not alone. Often, patients feel as if their problems are “too small” or only cosmetic, and therefore not important enough to justify a visit. In reality, there isn’t a problem too small. We are glad to meet with you, discuss your concerns, and give you options for treatment. Ultimately, we want you to have a smile you love and that gives you confidence. There’s a reason we’re the best orthodontist in Gahanna. Make an appointment today and find out why!

Your teeth and jaw are important parts of your overall health. When you prioritize dental care, you are making an investment in your future health and well-being. You may be unsure what conditions an orthodontist treats and how they can add to your health. Here are three different ways an orthodontist can care for your mouth, keep you healthy, and contribute to your quality of life.

Straightening TeethSo many people are self-conscious when they smile and are uncomfortable with the look of their teeth. In fact, the primary reason people come to see an orthodontist is crooked teeth. If you are embarrassed about the look of your teeth or wish they were better aligned, an orthodontist can use a variety of tools to straighten your teeth. While braces are the best known orthodontic device, orthodontists also use aligners, retainers, and other appliances to move teeth into their appropriate spaces. Through x-rays, molds, and visual inspections, an orthodontist can choose the optimal treatment plan for you to make your smile straight and sparkling.

Correcting a “Bad Bite”When chewing food or biting down causes pain or discomfort, that is called malocclusion, or a “bad bite.” Crooked or crowded teeth, an underbite, or an overbite can all cause discomfort and long-term health problems. The way your jaw fits together is an important part of your quality of life. A poor bite can cause headaches, tooth decay, poor sleep, and even gum disease. By adjusting teeth placement, an orthodontist can bring the teeth and jaw into alignment and restore comfort and health.

Treating Health Concerns like TMJSwelling, popping, and pain while chewing are all common symptoms of TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder. These discomforts are often caused by misaligned teeth or other spacing issues in the mouth. Orthodontic treatment can realign the teeth and jaw, relieving pain and often eliminating the discomfort of TMJ. Orthodontics has also been successful in treating many other health concerns, such as sleep issues, mouth injuries, and migraines. A consult with your orthodontist will tell you how they can treat your particular challenges.​One of the best aspects of orthodontics is its ability to help anyone. Regardless of age or need, a good orthodontist can realign teeth and uncover a beautiful smile. Long-term, orthodontics can relieve pain and restore health, preventing gum disease and tooth decay. If you are in need of orthodontic treatment or would like a consultation with an orthodontist in Dublin, OH, contact James Karpac today.

When you or your child needs an orthodontist, it can be overwhelming to choose from the available options. Many factors that will contribute to your choice. Here is a quick guide to select the best orthodontist for your needs.

Research Your OptionsMake a list of the most important factors in your choice of an orthodontist. While cost and proximity to your home are often high on the list, you should also consider reputation, training, and available treatment and technologies. Asking friends and family for recommendations is a good starting point. Your other medical practitioners can also be good resources. You will want to verify that any orthodontist you consider is actually a specialist and not just a dentist who does orthodontics. You can search for orthodontists in your area on the American Association of Orthodontists website here.

Read Reviews and Ask for OpinionsOnce you have located some options for orthodontists in your area, you can learn more about them via their website. The website will most likely list the practice’s specialties, the treatments they offer, and office hours. You may find patient testimonials as well. Checking websites like Angie’s List and Yelp may help you find reviews outside your normal circles.

Pay a VisitNow that you have selected a practitioner you think is the best orthodontist for your family, it’s time to pay a personal visit to his or her office. You can call and ask for a consult with the orthodontist. When you arrive for your appointment, notice the way you feel as you enter the building. Are the staff friendly and attentive? Is the office clean and comfortable? Are appointments running on time? Remember that an orthodontic relationship requires trust and regular visits, so you want to feel at peace when you are at their office.​Once you are meeting with the orthodontist, ask about the practice’s approach to treatment. Review the payment options, all the included costs, and any available insurance coverage. If you are unsure what questions to ask, this is a good list to get you started.

Finding orthodontic care for your family is not an easy quest. Your time, money, and teeth are very valuable. If you are looking for the best dentist in Dublin and Gahanna, be sure you to come visit us at James Karpac Orthodontics. Wherever you end up, it is worth the effort it takes to find the right fit. Good luck!

If you were asked what an orthodontist does, you could probably give a pretty good answer. Even so, there are plenty of myths and misunderstandings about when you need an orthodontist, who they serve, and how they can help you. Here’s a quick look at some expert tips that will teach you what you need to know about orthodontic care.

Crooked teeth are more common than you thinkLooking around you, especially at the faces in advertising and media, it’s easy to believe that there are lots of people with naturally straight smiles. The truth is, most don’t. Our teeth do a lot of work from the very beginning of our lives. A combination of daily wear, genetics, injuries, bad habits, and less than stellar oral hygiene quickly leads most people to a need for orthodontic care. Those teeth you’re seeing in movies have likely been lovingly shaped by -- you guessed it -- an orthodontist.

Orthodontics isn’t just about straight teethIt’s easy to think that all orthodontists do is give you a beautiful smile. And that’s definitely a big part of what we do! But orthodontics is so much more than just braces and straight teeth. Orthodontic care can also improve your gum health, strengthen and shape your jaw, and even improve your overall physical health.

When in doubt, schedule an appointmentThe American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children see an orthodontist by the time they are seven years old. This allows your child’s orthodontist to be proactive about potential oral health problems before the jaw is done growing.

If you have any concerns about your orthodontic appearance or comfort, it’s always best to schedule an appointment. This is true regardless of whether or not you or your child have been seen before. Your orthodontist can address your concerns and help you determine your next steps.

It’s never too late for orthodontic careWhen you think of braces or retainers, you probably imagine an awkward middle schooler or teen. In reality, orthodontic care can begin at any point after adult teeth are present. According to the AAO, 1 in every 5 orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. If you suffer from continuing jaw problems or have missing or crooked teeth, a visit to the orthodontist could set you on the road to the smile you’ve always wanted.

Say goodbye to the braces of yesteryearOrthodontic technology has come a long way in a short time! There are a wide variety of braces and other appliances, and they are designed to be more comfortable than the former versions. Of course, treatments vary and the recommendation of your orthodontist could include anything from a simple retainer to surgery. Regardless of your situation, we are committed to working with you to find the best treatment plan for your life and budget.

At James Karpac Orthodontics, we are committed to full care orthodontics. We will give you the best care and up-to-date treatment possible. Hopefully these expert tips will help you consider how we can best serve you and your family.

InstructionsPlace the Spring Mix in a large bowl. (If you can't find the Earthbound Farms Spring Mix just use a similar mixed greens blend, about 6 cups or more.)Using a small, heart shaped cookie cutter (about 1 inch) cut out heart shapes from the cucumber, red peppers, and mozza cheese. Sprinkle the veggies and cheese over the salad.Sprinkle with a generous amount of the Simply Sesame Trail Mix. (If you can't find this you can leave it off or substitute with another crunchy salad topper.)Just before serving, drizzle with your desired amount of Roasted Red Pepper Dressing and toss until equally distributed.

Directions1.Place water in a large bowl; sprinkle with yeast. Let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes. Brush another large bowl with oil.2.In bowl with yeast, whisk sugar, oil, and salt. Stir in flours with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. Transfer to oiled bowl; brush top of dough with oil. Cover bowl with plastic wrap; let stand in a warm spot until dough has doubled in size, about 1 hour.3.Turn dough out onto a well-floured surface. With floured hands, knead until smooth, about 15 seconds; divide into two balls.4.Set balls on a plate (they should not touch); freeze until firm, about 1 hour. Then freeze in a freezer bag up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator.*If you aren’t freezing, then skip #4 and just use the dough!

Directions-use a heart shape cookie cutter (or just free hand it)-spread your marinara, cheese and toppings on one piece of the heart (leave a little room around the edges to seal the calzone)-place the other heart dough on top and seal the edges with a fork-brush the top with some melted butter and sprinkle a little salt or garlic salt-place in a pre-heated oven (400 degrees) for 12-15 minutes

Whipped Cream1Put your mason jar in the freezer for 15 minutes, so it is very cold.2Pour in cream, sugar, and vanilla.3Screw on lid and wrap the jar in a towel if it is too cold to hold. Shake vigorously until you no longer hear liquid sloshing inside, about 5-7 minutes. Check the consistency of your whipped cream before setting in the refrigerator while you make your hot chocolate.Hot Chocolate1In a small saucepan, heat milk. Add chocolate and stir until completely dissolved and milk reaches desired temperature. Do not allow to boil. Remove from heat and stir in food coloring.Assemble1Pour into cups, spoon on whipped cream, and top with sprinkles.2Enjoy!

We all know what braces look like, but do we all know what each part is called, and what role it plays in your orthodontic journey? No? We are so excited to educate you about your braces!

Bands: A band is generally made of stainless steel, and is a ring that wraps around a molar. It is cemented to the tooth. The band anchors the rest of the braces to your mouth.

Brackets: Brackets are the fun little metal or ceramic component that is bonded to each tooth with cement. The brackets help the archwires stay in place and guide them along the teeth. What’s an archwire? We’re glad you asked!

Archwires: Archwires are thin, metal wires (generally made of either stainless steel or titanium) that guide the teeth as they shift. The archwires are adjustable and provide the force that aligns the teeth. Archwires attach to the brackets through ligatures, which brings us to our next word!

Ligatures: The ligature is a small, twisted wire or elastic band that holds the archwire to the bracket.

Elastic ties: Elastic ties are tiny rubber bands that wrap around the brackets in order to hold the archwire in place. Elastic ties come in a wide variety of colors, and allow the patient to customize their braces bling however they’d like!

Elastics/Rubber Bands: These are different from the elastic ties. Rubber bands attach to hooks on the top and bottom molar brackets or bands, helping your teeth move in the direction the orthodontist wants them to go.

Hooks: You thought we forgot about hooks, there, didn’t you? Hooks are, you guessed it, hooks attached to your braces! They are placed strategically so the rubber bands can hook onto them.

Coil Springs: Springs can be attached to the archwire, between the brackets, to close spaces or to keep spaces open for incoming teeth.

Buccal Tube: The buccal tube is attached to the band (Remember it? It wraps around your molar!) and contains slots to hold a variety of appliances in place, including the archwire and headgear.

Headgear: Headgear comes in several varieties, and serves several purposes. The term “headgear” refers to orthodontic appliances that are worn outside of the mouth, to help correct oral issues that can’t be corrected with braces alone.

Getting braces can feel scary. Often, we know that it’s made of metal and may feel like an eternity before it finally comes off. If we don’t know anything else about our braces, we may have a less than awesome orthodontic experience.

When we know more about something, it becomes less unknown and mysterious, and can ease some of our fears. We hope that, by learning the names and functions for the different parts of your braces, you will feel more informed and empowered to fully embrace (see what we did there??) your orthodontic experience!We all know what braces look like, but do we all know what each part is called, and what role it plays in your orthodontic journey? No? We are so excited to educate you about your braces!